Hurricane (Typhoon) — Rota, Guam

2023-05-23 to 2023-05-25 · Rota, Guam

Event narrative

Mawar impacts across the CNMI were generally wind-related with the more-widespread impacts across Rota, where category 1 typhoon conditions were felt. Tinian and Saipan impacts were consistent with tropical storm wind conditions. For the two northern islands, many banana trees were felled, along with many large branches and some uprooted trees that blocked some secondary roads. Lighter-constructed buildings saw some damage with some tin roofs being peeled up. On Saipan, a few non-residential wood and tin structures were blown apart. Rota saw partial defoliation of trees with a number of larger downed trees. Primary utilities (power and water) were lost for much of the island during the peak of Mawar's passage. While concrete structure fared well, some wood and tin extensions suffered some wind damage, with some tin roofs having blown off and through neighborhoods. Additionally, some wooden power poles were downed.

Wider weather episode

Mawar developed over the Northwest Pacific Ocean in the second half of May. It moved northwestward from near Chuuk to eventually cross the Mariana Islands near Guam and Rota.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1120093. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.